Granite Countertops: Tile vs. Slab

Learn about granite countertops, tile vs. slab. Find out why you should have a professional installer install your granite countertops.

LESLIE: Alright, up next in Michigan, we’ve got Kurt who listens to The Money Pit on WHAM. Tell us about your kitchen countertop debate.

KURT: Bought a house about three years ago and it’s got the original Formica countertop. And we’ve contemplated doing the upgrade. Just wanted to get your opinion on the granite tile countertops[1]; you know, with the tight fitting …

LESLIE: Mm-hmm, versus the slab.

TOM: Right, mm-hmm.

LESLIE: Well, I think it’s a matter of budget, Kurt, and personal taste. I mean I think if you can afford the solid slab – and of course it depends on which type you choose, how much linear feet you have on your countertops; you know, that’s really going to vary the cost of the granite because you can choose a granite that’s $60 a square and you can choose a granite that’s hundreds of dollars a square. So it’s really up to you and your budget. I think the solid looks amazing, only because it’s a uniform piece. If you go with the granite tile, you’re going to save a bunch of money but then you’re going to have seams; even though they do join them and then do grout that as well. It’s really a personal taste, I think.

TOM: Yeah. And you know, Kurt, it’s also, of course, very important that you have it professionally installed because handling that stuff, there are some real tricks of the trade on how you handle that. And it’s important that the cabinets that they go on be absolutely flush and level because you don’t want to …

TOM: Yeah, you may have to do some structural reinforcement. And that’s why it’s so much more expensive. But you know, it definitely is a great improvement for your house and it’s something that’s going to give you a good return on investment.[2]

OK, Kurt? Thanks so much for calling us at 1-888-MONEY-PIT. 888-666-3974.